When Jonathan first trained as a hairdresser, he never imagined his career would one day lead him to working in an Approved Premises.

 

Today, five years after joining Interventions Alliance as an Administration Apprentice, Jonathan is the Senior Administrator across Ozanam House and St Christopher’s in Newcastle, playing a vital role in supporting colleagues, residents and the smooth running of both services. 

 

His story shows that there is no single route into working in an Approved Premises – and that the skills you gain in one career can open the door to another. 

 

An unexpected career change 

 

Before joining Interventions Alliance, Jonathan worked as a hairdresser, eventually becoming self-employed. Business was going well until the COVID-19 pandemic brought everything to a halt. 

 

“During lockdown I realised I didn’t miss hairdressing at all,” he says. “That was a real turning point for me. I’d lost my passion and knew I wanted a fresh start and a new challenge.” 

 

While searching for opportunities, Jonathan came across a role in an Approved Premises. Before then, he admits he didn’t even know they existed. 

 

“Once I’d read the advert and done some research, I was excited and intrigued. I thought I’d give it a go.” 

 

That decision changed the course of his career. 

 

Growing with the role 

 

Jonathan joined as an Administration Apprentice, learning from experienced colleagues before progressing to Administration Officer and eventually Senior Administrator. 

 

His role is incredibly varied. Alongside managing payroll, petty cash, resident rents, invoices and line managing administration, catering, housekeeping and night staff, he also supports the day-to-day running of both Approved Premises. 

 

That can include everything from carrying out building checks and room searches to helping residents make phone calls, complete benefit claims or simply taking time to talk. 

 

“No day is the same,” Jonathan explains. “It really keeps you on your toes and that’s something I love about working here.” 

 

More than an administration role 

 

Although his job title is administrative, Jonathan’s role extends far beyond paperwork. 

 

Every morning begins by checking in with colleagues, receiving the overnight handover and spending time with residents before the day’s tasks begin. 

 

Those conversations and relationships are an important part of life in an Approved Premises. 

 

“I think being approachable and positive helps residents build trust. That relationship can make a real difference and helps people feel more comfortable communicating with professionals.” 

 

The reality of working in an Approved Premises 

 

Jonathan believes one of the biggest misconceptions is simply that most people don’t know what Approved Premises are. 

 

“I think they’re hidden gems,” he says. “People don’t really know what they do or the support they provide.” 

 

Like every role in an Approved Premises, there are challenges. Supporting people who can be unpredictable means staff need to stay alert, while also remaining compassionate and focused on helping residents move forward. 

 

“It’s difficult when you can see someone’s potential, but they make decisions that set them back. Our job is to help them get back on track.” 

 

Having a strong team around him makes all the difference. 

 

“We have a really close staff team. We support each other at work and outside of work. The support from colleagues, managers and the wider organisation is fantastic, and that really helps during the tougher days.” 

 

Celebrating success 

 

For Jonathan, the most rewarding part of the role is seeing residents achieve their goals. 

 

Whether that’s securing accommodation, finding employment, becoming more confident or simply opening up to staff, every success matters. 

 

One resident in particular has stayed with him. 

 

“He’d never successfully moved on from an Approved Premises before and everyone was understandably anxious when he arrived. But over the following months he really engaged with staff, secured housing and found a job before moving on successfully. Seeing that transformation reminded all of us why this work matters.” 

 

Why consider a career in an Approved Premises? 

 

Looking back, Jonathan says joining an Approved Premises was the right decision from his very first day. 

 

“The unpredictability and excitement had me hooked straight away.” 

 

He’s also proud of how much he’s grown personally. 

 

“I’ve realised I’m much more confident than I ever thought I was.” 

 

For anyone considering a career in an Approved Premises, his advice is simple. 

 

“It’s the most rewarding, challenging and unpredictable job you’ll ever have – but it’s absolutely worth it.” 

 

Those three words perfectly sum up Jonathan’s experience. 

 

Rewarding, because every successful move-on represents someone’s opportunity to build a better future. 

 

Challenging, because supporting people with complex needs takes patience, empathy and resilience. 

 

Unpredictable, because no two days are ever the same. 

 

And for Jonathan, that’s exactly what makes it such a fulfilling career. 

 

• If you’re interested in finding out more about a career in an Approved Premises – get in touch enquiries@interventionsalliance.co.uk